“The URA provided me with the amazing opportunity to actually do engineering work and learn alongside the best,” says Hartry. “I was on the fence about whether I wanted to study electrical or mechanical engineering and this gave me the direction I needed… I now know I want to focus on mechanical engineering.”  

Hartry spent the summer working with researcher Dr. Phil Ferguson and the team at UM’s Space Technology and Advanced Researcher (STAR) Lab in the Price Faculty of Engineering on some very special projects that will have big impact for northern communities.  

Designing airships to provide connectivity in the North 

One of Hartry’s tasks was helping to design a unmanned helium airship capable of carrying communication equipment to help connect remote communities. This technology will replace the patchwork of telecommunications systems that currently underserve communities in the North.  

Creating the reaction wheel in the lab

Using computer-aided design, Hartry learned how to account for all the factors that would affect the loft, speed and the ability of the blimp to work in arctic conditions. Through trial and error, and many iterations of the design, Hartry learned how to improve and alter the blimp to make it fit design constraints.  

His mantra for the summer was ‘Learn New Things’, because every day was filled with so many new questions and challenges.  

“It was a steep learning curve, but everyone in the lab collaborates to solve the smallest design issues,” says Hartry. “I was able to learn through an iterative process of trial and error where failure meant I just had something to build on to make it work.”  

As part of another project, Hartry worked to design a new kind of reaction wheel for satellites. With this reaction wheel, magnetic liquid could be used to spin the satellite instead of using a larger, heavier motor to spin a solid disk. This mechanism could be used for small satellite projects, such as those run by universities.   

Black magnetic liquid rotating inside the reaction wheel designed by Aidan Hartry

The cage specifications included having enough copper wiring to run a strong electrical current and enough space for the reaction wheel. With one design leading to another, the cage design continues to get smaller with a stronger magnetic field. He plans to continue this work as a volunteer in Ferguson’s lab throughout the academic year.  

Whale blubber and the tracker tag

A particularly fun and intriguing challenge for Hartry was working on the Aerial Tagging System for Beluga Whales project. Learning alongside Ferguson and the team, his challenge was to determine what velocity a dart would need to tag a whale with a tracker.  

While researchers currently tag belugas from boats in the water, this is stressful for both the researchers and whales, who are spooked by the chaos of boat noise and human interaction.   

The team is designing a system where aerial drones can be used to locate whale pods and shoot a tracker dart with enough velocity to penetrate the whale’s thick skin without causing harm or simply bouncing off.  

“I never pictured myself learning about the ballistic properties of whale blubber, but we needed to determine the surface resistance in order to create a strong enough delivery mechanism from a drone to the whale,” says Hartry. “It was a really fun and unique problem and opened my eyes to how engineering is key to pretty much every human activity” 

About Undergraduate Research Awards (URA) 

The URAs are funded through the Office of Vice-President (Research & International) and the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU), along with support from faculties. These awards provide undergraduate students with access to exciting research opportunities. 

The application period for Summer 2026 starts in mid-January.  Find more information here. 

During the URA, Elendu conducted research on restorative justice models and practices, drawing comparisons to traditional justice systems.  Her work also delved into Indigenous water laws and responsibilities, where she explored the reverence for water as a sacred entity and the vital role Indigenous women play in its protection. This immersive research experience not only deepened her understanding of the intersection between academic inquiry and real-world challenges but also enriched her overall university journey. Elendu plans to carry this knowledge into her future legal career, approaching her work thoughtfully and fairly while keeping people and their experiences at the forefront.

In the summer of 2024, Elendu worked under the supervision of Dr. Andrew Woolford, professor and head of the Department of Sociology and Criminology. Dr. Woolford is an Emeritus of the College of the Royal Society of Canada, Fullbright Scholar and former President of the International Association of Genocide Scholars. His research focuses on themes of power, resistance, justice and destruction.

We spoke with Elendu about her URA experience:

What research did you conduct?
Elendu: I focused on researching restorative justice models and practices, comparing them to traditional forms of justice. Restorative justice emphasizes healing, accountability and community-based approaches, which often align with Indigenous worldviews but it’s important to note that they are not the same. Additionally, I explored Indigenous water laws and responsibilities, learning how water is viewed as a sacred entity and how Indigenous women are central to its protection. Both areas of research highlighted how traditional and Indigenous practices offer meaningful alternatives to mainstream systems.

What made you decide to apply for an URA?
Elendu: I wanted to gain hands-on research experience and learn from a professor in a way that went beyond the classroom. The URA felt like a great opportunity to dive deeper into topics I’m passionate about while building skills for my future. Additionally, it will strengthen my academic profile for applying to law schools.

Was there anything that surprised you during the research process?
Elendu: I was surprised by how much I learned from talking and connecting with people, especially Elders and knowledge holders. Attending a residential school survivor event and listening to Elder Betty Ross share her story was incredibly eye-opening. It taught me that research is not just about books and articles—it’s about listening and engaging with lived experiences.

What did you learn from the URA experience? How has it enriched your university journey?
Elendu: The URA taught me how to think critically, manage my time and communicate my ideas succinctly. It gave me a deeper appreciation for the connection between academic research and real-world issues. This experience has made my university journey feel more meaningful, and it’s shown me how research can create positive change.

How do your studies in the Faculty of Arts complement your research activities and your future career goals?
Elendu: My studies in criminology and psychology help me understand how people behave and how justice systems work. This connects to my goal of becoming a lawyer; it gives me the tools to think carefully about legal issues and how they affect people and communities. Through my research on restorative justice and Indigenous practices, I’ve learned how justice can be about healing and accountability, not just punishment. I plan to use this knowledge in the future as a lawyer to approach my work in a thoughtful and fair way, ensuring I keep people and their experiences at the forefront.

The URA is an incredible opportunity for students interested in conducting research to spend 16 full-time weeks from May to August under the mentorship of a professor of their choice. It offers many benefits: building valuable research skills, expanding your academic network and a $7,000 monetary award.

Applications for the 2025 URA are open! Visit the Undergraduate Research Awards webpage for more information on the application criteria and guidelines. There are over 50 Faculty of Arts researchers willing to take on an undergraduate student this summer.

During this immersive program, Fulugan delved into archival research across various collections in Winnipeg, honing their research skills and gaining a deeper understanding of their discipline. Not only did the experience offer academic enrichment, it also allowed them to better understand themselves, revealing their strengths and areas for growth.

In the summer of 2024, Fulugan worked under the supervision of Dr. Lara Rosenoff Gauvin, an associate professor in anthropology and co-chair of the Respectful Rematriation and Repatriation Ceremony. The RRRC involves returning Indigenous Ancestors and Belongings – that were taken and/or held by the university without consent – to First Nations, Inuit and Métis descendant communities. Dr. Rosenoff Gauvin’s research centers on the knowledge, practices and rights of survivors of violence, conflict and forced displacement.

We spoke with Fulugan about their URA experience:

FACULTY OF ARTS: What research did you conduct?

FULUGAN: I engaged in archival research at collections throughout Winnipeg in service to the Respectful Rematriation and Repatriation Ceremony. My research was conducted to understand UM’s harmful and wrongful acquisition of human  remains and followed the public apology made by President Michael Benarroch in July 2024, which I was also able to be a part of. This apology was made to descendant Indigenous communities whose Ancestors’ remains and belongings were wrongfully accepted and stewarded by UM.

FACULTY OF ARTS: What made you decide to apply for an URA? 

FULUGAN: I was initially planning to graduate from my program after four years and immediately move on to graduate school, but I realized that trying to finish my undergrad as fast as I could wasn’t a good way of making the most out of the university experience (and would be detrimental to my mental health). I thought the URA would be a helpful experience before grad school and my would-be supervisor, Dr. Lara Rosenoff Gauvin, encouraged me to apply.

FACULTY OF ARTS: Was there anything that surprised you during the research process?  

FULUGAN: Understanding research as work! I loved all the parts of doing research but doing it within the context of a paid position was new.

FACULTY OF ARTS: What did you learn from the URA experience? How has it enriched your university journey? 

FULUGAN: I think that the URA helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses—what worked for me and what didn’t. Being able to dedicate the summer to honing in on these things while engaging in meaningful work was invaluable. For example, I had no trouble with doing the work but learning to balance my life as a student researcher and as a human being was something that I had to get used to. Since a lot of research involves just thinking things through in your head, it can be difficult to stop and take a break. I’m glad that the URA taught me the skills to navigate these kinds of problems, which I wouldn’t have known about without undertaking the experience.

FACULTY OF ARTS: What advice do you have for other students who are considering applying for an URA?

FULUGAN: You don’t necessarily need a plan set in stone; the goals of my project and what I did changed over the course of the summer. Just find something in your field that you’re interested in, approach a knowledgeable professor about research they might be doing that complements this and ask how you could get involved. Professors are people too!

FACULTY OF ARTS: How do your studies in the Faculty of Arts complement your research activities and your future career goals?  

FULUGAN: I hope to continue working with heritage in the future, and the Department of Anthropology’s rematriation is vital to addressing harm and moving forward in a good manner. I felt that I had a good idea of what to expect based on what I had learned in my courses because the professors I’ve had approach their work genuinely and are eager to help their students.

The URA is an excellent opportunity for students interested in conducting research to spend 16 weeks full-time from May to August under the mentorship of a professor of their choice. It offers many benefits: building valuable research skills, expanding your academic network and a $7,000 monetary award.

Applications for the 2025 URA are open! Visit the Undergraduate Research Awards webpage for more information on the application criteria and guidelines. There are over 50 Faculty of Arts researchers willing to take on an undergraduate student this summer.

Scott Saindon, a third-year Indigenous Studies student, and Arshpreet Gill, a third-year Psychology student, both in the Faculty of Arts, were recognized as winners in the 2024 showcase for their outstanding contributions.

Scott Saindon achieved second place honours in the Social Sciences and Humanities poster competition for his research, ‘Métis’: a decade in review, that delves into the debates and discourses surrounding Bill C-53, an Act respecting the recognition of certain Métis governments.

“I’m Red River Métis, and this research project was very specific to my own peoplehood,” Saindon shared, reflecting on the personal connection he felt to his work.

Encouraged by two of his professors to apply for the URA, Saindon spent 16 weeks over the summer of 2024 working on his research under the guidance of Professor David Parent of the Department of Indigenous Studies. “I enjoyed the creative freedom I was granted to explore my ideas,” Saindon noted. This was an opportunity for him to independently explore while receiving expert mentorship.

The experience reinforced his belief in the importance of pursuing research topics you are passionate about, as it makes the work feel deeply rewarding.

Saindon emphasized the benefits of the URA, “you get to do research over the long-term, it’s a good test if you are thinking about going into graduate studies, and one of the big benefits was networking. I was able to connect with other students, Indigenous people and researchers.”

What’s next for Saindon? “My long-term career aspirations are to become a graduate student at the University of Manitoba to pursue a master’s degree and PhD, hopefully leading into a professorship and research in Métis Studies and Indigenous Studies.” He also aims to present his research at the 2025 Indigenous Relationality Workshop during the Prairie Political Science Association Conference in Banff, Alberta.

Arshpreet Gill achieved first place honours in the Social Sciences and Humanities oral competition for his research, Incentives for renewable energy: Capital-dominated vs. Margin-dominated projects, focused on how tailored incentives can drive progress in sectors like aviation and heavy-duty trucking. Gill was supervised by Professor Maryna Klymchuk of the Asper School of Business.

Gill applied for the URA with a clear goal – to share his research’s broader impact: “It wasn’t just about policies or data- it was about understanding the bigger picture of how Canada can meet its climate goals and how students like us can contribute to that vision.”

The showcase event gave him the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals passionate about sustainability and inspire conversations around innovative solutions. “More than anything, I wanted to show that research isn’t just for experts- it’s a tool for anyone who wants to make a meaningful difference,” he said.

Gill encourages students to pursue undergraduate research, emphasizing the personal and academic growth it offers. “Choose a project that excites you; that passion will carry you through any challenge. Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from your mentor and embrace the opportunity to learn, even if it feels intimidating,” he advised.

Gill’s commitment to sustainability doesn’t end with his URA. After completing his Bachelor of Arts, he plans to attend law school at Robson Hall to gain the legal expertise needed to advocate for renewable energy policies. Following law school, he aims to purse an MBA at the Asper School of Business, equipping himself with leadership skills to make a meaningful impact in the renewable energy sector. For Gill, his work is more than a research project- it’s part of a long-term vision to influence policy and drive positive change on a global scale.

Congratulations to all students who presented their research at this year’s Undergraduate Research Showcase! Your hard work and dedication exemplify the spirit of innovation and academic excellence at the University of Manitoba.

Are you an undergraduate student interested in conducting research? Applications for the 2025 URA are open now. There are over 50 researchers in the Faculty of Arts ready to work with undergraduate students this summer. Deadline to apply is February 17, 2025.

Chris Hay, “Place Writing in Educational Contexts: Studies of Practice”
Research Supervisor: Michelle Honeyford

Part of my role on the research team was to co-facilitate and transcribe interviews and focus groups with educators who participated in Summer Writing Institutes led by the principal investigators of the study, Dr. Michelle Honeyford and Dr. Jennifer Watt. Their experiential framework was designed to engage educators in “profoundly impactful writing experiences through which they learn to see themselves as writers”. I  analyzed the data that emerged from the interviews through poetic inquiry and arts-based research.

I was inspired by Dr. Honeyford’s instruction in “Teaching Senior Years English Language Arts” on multi-modalities, and thinking about texts and assessments in broader, deeper, and nontraditional ways. This study prompted me to critically reflect on my practices as a teacher candidate, writer and teacher of writing, and visual artist, intentionally developing a responsive practice that aligns with the principles of Mamàhtawisiwin.

I have developed a deeper understanding of how to address sensitive topics like consent and gender-based sexual violence in educational settings, which will be invaluable in creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment for my future students.

Working with my supervisors, I was given the freedom, trust, and encouragement to use my skills, knowings, and passions to further expand on the project. They also offered me the following feedback: “Chris made significant contributions to the research and to the project. Her sensitivities as a teacher, visual artist, and researcher were invaluable. She brought her tremendous insights to the data as a visual artist, utilizing poetic inquiry and collage to create stunning pieces from/with the data.”

Faatimah Kamalodeen, “Towards decolonized and transformative educational practices: Insights from refugee family narratives of their exilic journeys”
Research Supervisor: Dr. Sreemali Herath

Currently, I am pursuing my B.Ed to become a certified teacher in Manitoba. We are receiving many refugee students in our schools that have disrupted education and heartbreaking life experiences. This research project helps me to have trauma-informed approaches by understanding the background of my refugee students.

We worked with multi-generational refugee families using narrative and arts-based methods to generate data to gain a deep understating of the exilic journey these families took. We aimed to understand the journey through refugee family narratives of their journeys to Canada. We did this by assembling artifacts refugee families associate with the journey and collecting and then analyzing historical fiction on refugee journeys by Canadian refugee authors.

Our team consisted of multicultural and multilingual team members and Dr. Sreemali values and appreciates and each of their work. Since our human study that involved trauma, Dr. Sreemali lead the way by ensuring humanity for our research participants by makinf them feel comfortable to share their traumatic journeys. Learning from her example, this has encouraged me to become a thoughtful leader whenever I assume a leadership role.

Dr. Sreemali also provided the following feedback: “As a pre-service teacher, Faatimah was curious to learn more about what teachers in Manitoba can to do support children and families of refugee backgrounds to provide the language support they need. This curiosity stemmed from what she experienced first-hand during her practicum experiences. The research gave her a unique opportunity to learn about refugeeism and the challenges students faced in school.”

Brooke Jackson, “Missing the Point: A Critical Discourse Analysis of the Manitoba Education Grades 9 and 10 Human Sexuality Curriculum Resources”
Research Supervisors: Shannon Moore and Jennifer Watt

My research examined the Manitoba Grades 9 and 10 Human Sexuality curriculum through a Critical Discourse Analysis to identify gaps in how it addresses key concepts such as gender, consent, and gender-based sexual violence (GBSV). Findings revealed that ‘consent’ is mentioned only minimally, and that the curriculum lacks inclusive, research-informed content on gender and sexual orientation.

My inspiration for this research comes from my passion as a Physical & Health Education preservice teacher and my belief in the importance of addressing gender-based sexual violence in the classroom. I see it as essential to empowering students with knowledge about consent and gender roles, especially as these issues are portrayed in media and shape young people’s perceptions.

Through this experience, I have developed a deeper understanding of how to address sensitive topics like consent and gender-based sexual violence in educational settings, which will be invaluable in creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment for my future students. My faculty mentors provided invaluable support, especially as we navigated the sensitive topics within our research. Their professionalism and encouragement made me feel confident in exploring complex issues, and their guidance helped shape my approach to addressing these subjects effectively. 

I would advise other undergraduate students to pursue research topics they are truly passionate about, as this will keep them motivated especially through challenges. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to mentors for guidance at any time!

Lauryn Handoga, “Can’t Fold Now: Producing critical feminist media resources to enact ethical sex education”
Research Supervisor: Dr. Jennifer Watt and Dr. Shannon D. Moore

As a URA, I contributed to a research initiative focused on empowering educators to address Gender-Based Sexual Violence (GBSV) in classrooms through critical feminist media literacy education. Recognizing that media profoundly shapes young people’s perceptions of gender, consent, and relationships, I designed and co-developed a deck of “I Spy with My Feminist Eye” pedagogical playing cards grounded in critical media literacy and feminist theory for teachers to use in their classrooms. The cards provide popular media examples alongside prompts for reflection, analysis, and creative production, to help teachers facilitate discussion on gender, consent, and sexual violence, in the classroom through a critical feminist media literacy lens.

In my future career, I will be teaching students who are in arguably the most formative ages of their life (ages 10-14), and who are internalizing harmful messages about consent, relationships, and gender from the media. If left uncontested by educators, these harmful messages from popular media will continue to shape their understanding of themselves and others. I believe it is my responsibility as an educator to teach about consent, gender, and relationships through this lens.

If you are an undergraduate students considering to engage in research, I would encourage you to find a faculty member that is researching something that personally interests you and be brave – and go for it. It will be such a rewarding and profoundly impactful experience that you will carry into your career.

2024 URA recipients from the Faculty of Education also included:

Serena Chan, Levelling Up, “Developing a Game for Students with ADHD and LD Transitioning from High School to Postsecondary Education”
Research Supervisor: Dr. Lauren Goegan

Meghan Young, Katie Anderson, Lauren G. Hallett, “Mending the gap: A guide to Indigiqueering the curriculum”
Research Supervisor: Dr. Lucy Delgado

Involving students from all disciplinary streams across the Faculty’s Bachelor of Environmental Design Program, the URA projects encompassed diverse research areas, including: biomaterials; 3D scanning interior spaces; community engaged research and projects; storing and purifying water in urban regions; mid-century religious architecture; developing a collaboration model between designers and Indigenous communities; and experimenting with musical composition as a form of storytelling.

This research is advancing knowledge and fabricating a dynamic shift in design strategies; exemplifying the power of collaborative efforts and practices; and creating more inclusive and sustainable societies.  

Short interviews with each student reflecting on their summer research project and experience are featured below.

The URA is supported by the Office of the Vice-President (Research & International) and the University of Manitoba Students’ Union (UMSU), along with the University’s faculties. Applications for summer 2025 will open early 2025. More information on the program is available here.

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Brandan Gatz, ED4 Landscape Architecture + Urbanism
Miguel Siguenza, ED4 Architecture
with Dr. Yuhao Lu

Tell us about the research you have been doing this summer:

Brandan: As drone technology advances and becomes increasingly accessible, our research explored using automated drone flights for remote scanning and digital reconstruction tasks. While high-altitude, fixed-wing drone flights and satellites are already performing landscape scans, the instruments used are costly, and the time between scans can sometimes be several years. Using much cheaper multirotor drones and digital photogrammetry, we have created highly detailed 2D and 3D scanning products, such as orthomosaic maps, digital elevation models, point clouds, and vegetation indices. The research demonstrates that drones would be a valuable tool in Architecture and Landscape Architecture, complementing and enhancing existing site analysis practices.

Miguel: During the summer, we have done research on drone technology and mapping. With the use of automated flights, we were able to scan the University of Manitoba’s Fort Garry campus, Kings Park, and Transcona Bioreserve. We were able to process thousands of images and turn them into point clouds, meshes, DSMs, DTMs, and spectral indices. In comparison to satellite imagery, the resolution of the scans has shown significant amount of details. With all these digital reconstructions of the sites we uncover plenty of data such as vegetation health, changes on site over time and, produce site topography lines. The usefulness of these scans is applicable to many landscape architects and architects by enhancing their understanding of site conditions.

What have you found most intriguing?

Brandan: As a Landscape Architecture designer, site information is critical. The most intriguing part of my research has been a revisit to a site I planned a project for in my ED3 studio. After processing the scan, I could see how the site had changed. Using a vegetation index allowed me to see more of the “invisible” surface characteristics of the site.

Miguel: What I find most interesting is the different methods of capturing images and data which can uncover much information unseen by the human eye. Mostly in reference to the Multi Spectral cameras which capture the R, RE, NIR and G bands in the electromagnetic spectrum. The importance of these values shows in the monitoring of vegetation health as it can show abnormal behaviours which cannot be seen through RGB. Another aspect of the research was the importance of file organization and upkeep. Bad file organization practices will back up work for weeks, no more “x_finalFINALFINAAL.xyz” for me.

How is the experience opening ideas for future research, studies or career goals?

Brandan: Our research has shown me how much potential drones have in the design field, not only for site analysis but also for site monitoring. I don’t think enough research has been done to monitor sites after they have been designed, so systematically collecting data on a project and its effects on the surrounding context would be instrumental to future designers and researchers. I think drones have been very underutilized- these tools create opportunities for 3D reconstruction, climate simulations, and VR walk-throughs of proposed designs.

Miguel: Definitely unique, in our research we are very thorough with data, validations, and analysis. In comparison to studio, moving away from the poetics of interpretation to proving a hypothesis was quite a difference to me. I learned that I enjoy both methods and I am looking forward to merging both in future projects. I also loved the working environment, meeting people I could not have imagined meeting was such a great opportunity to learn more about different disciplines. Our research with drones, vegetation, and mapping has opened up how I see landscape in general. In the future, if given the opportunity, I would like us to continue our methodology on unique sites and explore the difference between cities.

How can we find out more?

Brandan: A manual titled From Images to Points to Images was written by another researcher (Miguel S.) and me and will be available to read online very soon at https://festudio.ca. Some preliminary scan results can also be accessed online at https://festudio.ca/research/dap. We also plan on writing a paper to be submitted to an academic journal. We will also potentially host a half-day workshop for any interested students.

Miguel: You can find out more on our website festudio.ca and feel free to contact us if there are any questions. We also have a manual available for anybody who would like to reproduce our results.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Brandan: Thank you to Yuhao and the URA program for the opportunity to do this research, and for being so enthusiastic and patient with Miguel and me as we learnt so many new things, not the least of which was how to get the most out of the many journal articles he printed for us.

Miguel: Special thanks to the team for one of the best summers.

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Eva Hagel MacPherson, ED3 Landscape Architecture + Urbanism
with Dr. Mercedes Garcia-Holguera

Tell us about the research you have been doing this summer:

This summer I worked with a team of students at the BIOM_Lab researching biomaterials including bacterial cellulose and mycelium. By facilitating growth of different biomaterials, I was able to improve my understanding of the material qualities throughout their life cycle. I enjoyed working in a hands-on way as I feel there can be a disconnect between designers and the materials they work with. My work over the summer explored weathering tests of bacterial cellulose, upscaling growth of both bacterial cellulose and mycelium, and designing and constructing an installation for an upcoming fall project. The experience working at the BIOM_Lab gave me insight on the physical applications and possibilities of biomaterials, more specifically bacterial cellulose and mycelium. In the future, I’m excited to learn more about the adaptability of other biomaterials and their intersections between ecology in design principles. 

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Celine Huynh, ED3 Architecture
with Prof. Jason Shields

Tell us about the research you have been doing this summer:

Working under Jason Shields, the focus of this research surrounds 3D scanning and its associated software’s repository capabilities and learning opportunities. More specifically, this study primarily explores two main avenues of exploration. We investigate the newly acquired BLK 360 G2 laser scanner and its ability to capture interior spaces.  In addition, we also worked with the University of Manitoba Architecture/Fine Arts library to learn more about this emerging capturing method’s applications to preserve heritage.

Most of my research encompassed the investigation of background information surrounding 2 different types of 3D scanning methods. These two techniques were laser scanning and photogrammetry. These two scanning methods are defined by the way that they collect measurements from the surrounding 3D environment. Laser scanning encompasses the utilization of a laser beam to measure the shape and surface material of everything within a given, radial area. Photogrammetry, on the other hand, employs 2D imagery to generate a 3D output by triangulating measurements from points of high contrast. This research ranged from identifying literature surrounding the technique’s process to looking into how the approach came to be in contemporary times. Other, more participatory work includes scanning various interiors on the University of Manitoba campus and uploading such scans to various 3D modelling software for viewing and further refining.

What have you found the most intriguing?

I found the practical workflow to generate a 3D model most intriguing. I found that, though they have different methodologies when it comes to collecting data, both laser scanning and photogrammetry similar processes in order to create the same output. This workflow can be broken down into four main steps: planning; image capture and data collection; data upload and 3D model generation; and post-processing. This has allowed me to better understand how digital 3D models of the real world come into fruition.

How has the experience opened up ideas for future research, studies or career goals?

The Undergraduate Research Award’s study period taught me that 3D scanning is an emerging piece of technology that allows the user to perceive digital representations in a new way. This experience has allowed me to see an opportunity to expand research from this point forward. As previously mentioned, a secondary focus of this research encompasses the utilization of 3D scanning in order to aid digital heritage projects. For example, 3D scanning provide research teams a non-invasive method to understand the physical properties of historical, architectural sites that are otherwise dangerous or hard to reach. Therefore, this experience can open up an opportunity to apply the knowledge acquired to preserve any heritage within Manitoba.

How can we find out more about the research you’ve been working on?

There are a few places where our work is on display. For example, there is a UM Today article that was released over the summer months discussing our work with Jason Shields. Other locations that display such work also includes Jason’s website, jasonshields.com where users can view the digital models we made through a 3D viewer. All web-based links are located below. In addition, more information will also be distributed in the upcoming Warehouse Journal.

Links:

https://news.umanitoba.ca/um-sshrc-explore-grant-announcement-3d-scanning-technology-in-interior-design-preservation/

https://jasonshields.com/?page_id=106

Is there anything else you would like to add?

For those who are thinking of applying next summer, the Undergraduate Research Award provides invaluable experiences that I would have never had the opportunity otherwise. It allowed me to gain a better understanding of something–like 3D scanning–that I was always curious of. This knowledge left an imprint on me to the extent that I believe that it could reframe my design thinking for the upcoming school year. It is also a place that allowed me to create connections with individuals that I would otherwise not have interacted with. So, for those who want to grow personally and professionally, I highly encourage anyone to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

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Howl Phan, ED3 Architecture
with Dean Mira (Mimi) Locher

AROW Bus Shelter Redesign, CDPC (Community Design and Planning Centre) + Community Engagement Projects.

Tell us about the research you have been doing this summer:

AROW Bus Shelter Redesign (main Summer research subject): the project was a collaboration between our team, members of the Community Design and Planning Centre (CDPC), and AROW Global, a firm specializing in the design and production of transportation window systems and driver protection barriers. We began by researching the regulations and current conditions of bus shelters in Winnipeg. Our research also considered the perspectives of various stakeholders involved in bus shelter design by analyzing local news, reports, and studies. This was later expanded to include a review of national and international precedents, evaluating their successes and the challenges they are addressing. We then related these findings to Winnipeg’s specific functional and cultural challenges to determine what could be learned before moving into the design phase.

CDPC (Community Design and Planning Centre) + Community Engagement Projects: the team’s engagement with different communities was an integral part of the development of the CDPC. The experience gained from interacting with partners in Manitoba and other parts of Canada has directly informed my major research topic on community engagement. Through these interactions, I was offered a faithful glimpse into the strengths and struggles of different groups of people. They taught me the importance of learning how to work with communities, recognizing that each community is as unique and complex as an individual. This learning stage, therefore, is a crucial step that should always come before actual collaboration begins.

What have you found the most intriguing?

Despite the variety of projects and the drastically different subjects that they cover, I found them all interconnected by a desire to be conscious of the needs of others. What intrigued me most was the common sensitivity that comes with each partnership. For this reason, despite the different issues that they tackled, I was able to translate the teachings from one to be carried onto another, which resulted in a coherent collection of works that I enjoyed equally.

How has the experience opened up ideas for future research, studies or career goals?

The concepts of cognitive understanding and sensitivity to others have resonated with me deeply since I joined the Environmental Design program, even though they initially felt vague, like a philosophical abstraction. However, my research with Professor Mimi Locher has made these ideas more tangible by exposing me to many different groups of individuals, some nearby, and some from far away. As this experience taught me the process of learning about others, it also helped me develop a cognitive understanding of myself.

As a maker, each design that I produce is a separate entity, but also an extension of my mind and body. I realized that my care for others enhances the understanding of what I seek in the design I create for them, and knowing that my work is rooted in this genuine sense of care makes it true to both that individual and myself. This process of self-discovery through a heightened awareness of others is a subject I want to explore further as I continue working with different partners and through my own studio research as I transition into a new term.

How can we find out more about the research you’ve been working on?

At the moment, the Undergraduate Research Showcase scheduled for October 24, 2024, is one way to learn more about our research.

Additionally, a website for the CDPC is being developed, which will be connected to the University of Manitoba network. This website aims to make information about the CDPC more accessible to both university members and the broader public. Once the website is published, our research will also be featured there.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Professor Mimi Locher, Alixa Lacerna, and Maryam Amini for their kindness and support. This opportunity was my first experience conducting formal research, and beyond all the aspects I have mentioned above, I have learned much about composing a research paper, creating a poster, and documenting my findings. I have also gained valuable insights into how to present content in a way that is both accessible and easy to understand.

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Karen Beatrice Servidad, ED2
with Prof. Frits Van Loon

Tell us about the research you have been doing this summer:

The research I have undertaken this summer concerns water, particularly how it is stored and purified in urban areas. Winnipeg’s current system of storing and releasing water during heavy rainfall events provides opportunities for better consideration of water quality through designed systems that purify the water before releasing it back into the natural system.

Through literature and online resources, I gathered information about existing water systems, both in Winnipeg and across the globe, and translated my research into simple, educative diagrams. The first half of research included building a foundational knowledge of water systems, using the Winnipeg area as a basis. In the second half, I analyzed other designed water systems in different countries, which allows us to compare the difference in functions, mechanics, and philosophies of each designed water system.

What have you found the most intriguing?

What I found the most intriguing during my research experience was understanding how constantly water changes, whether it is between states (liquid water, water vapour, etc.) or how it has interacted with our world (groundwater, rainwater, surface runoff, grey water, etc.). Identifying these differences (what causes these changes; at what point it changes) and establishing a vocabulary for these various water types was crucial in my understanding of how intricate a designed water system can potentially become.

How has the experience opened up ideas for future research, studies or career goals?

To share the same sentiment as Professor Frits, water is the most essential part of life, and this logic should be honoured in the designs we create. This is becoming increasingly crucial with the ongoing climate crisis and the need to reconsider our relationships with our natural world. My experience this summer has opened up an interest in studying urban areas that prioritize water through their designs, in hopes of applying this philosophy and knowledge of water in my future projects.

How can we find out more about the research you’ve been working on?

The drawings are to eventually become published into a pocket-sized educational book on water systems that aid in the ongoing research of Professor Frits Van Loon, Professor Kamni Gill, and other student research assistants.

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Anton Uruski, ED3 Architecture
with Prof. Terri Fuglem

SACRED AND MODERN

What have you found the most intriguing?

Winnipeg possesses a significant collection of post war, mid-century religious architecture that merits further study. Designed by nationally renowned modernist architects, these buildings are of considerable architectural worth. The scope of this research included archival investigation, photo documentation, and interviews with community members. These mid-century modern buildings included various religions, denominations, and community members. The survival of many congregations is not assured, and as congregations become smaller it is important to document this architectural movement.

What I have found the most intriguing in my research is the approach that architects of the mid-century have taken to design in a more spiritually guided and conceptual approach, linking architecture and faith.

How has the experience opened up ideas for future research, studies or career goals?

This experience has opened up ideas for studying religious architecture and the balance between tradition and contemporary design.

How can we find out more about the research you’ve been working on?

You can contact Prof. Fuglem or myself as the research will continue its progress!

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Dae Williams, ED3 Landscape Architecture + Urbanism
with Prof. Frits Van Loon

Tell us about the research you have been doing this summer:

Working with Valdie Seymour and Frits Van Loon, we have begun to develop an early model for how Landscape Architects and other designers can work with Indigenous communities.

What have you found the most intriguing?

Valdie is a magnet, he always attracts all kinds of people with stories, and knowledge to share and people are willing because he sees them eye to eye. Valdie believes interdisciplinary work is fundamental and extends this mindset to people beyond the academic world. Essentially, he believes that to work for a community, you must work with a community.

How has the experience opened up ideas for future research, studies or career goals?

I will be extending my work with both Frits and Valdie as the compiled document still needs refining, and Valdie would like a working map to help give context when he is describing the way his people use to live before European settlement.

How can we find out more about the research you’ve been working on?

As work like this could never truly be done, the soonest I can promise is a board that will be presented at the URA showcase.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

As truth and reconciliation continue to be a topic of discussion, opportunities like the URA provides a chance to bridge the gap between the academic world and the greater public. I was able to meet with people from the community come together, disagree and still come out the others side of meetings laughing.

I am unaware what other student’s experiences are in the URA but I am thankful for the chance to see that disagreements don’t need to mean the end of a positive relationship; something I think is easily forgotten when studying.

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Katrina Wisneski, ED3 Architecture
with Prof. Ralph Stern

The Jewish Kulturbund and the Mosaic of Berlin

Tell us about the research you have been doing this summer:

This summer I researched the Jewish Culture League (Jüdischer Kulturbund), an organization made by Jewish professional musicians and artists in Berlin who were forced to retire due to persecution during the Holocaust. Using a 1910 map of Berlin, I mapped out key places where Kulturbund members were permitted to perform through negotiations with National Socialists. These places included theatres, synagogues, cafes, and occasionally even houses. Through access of a 1932 Jewish address book, I located the addresses in which key individuals of the Kulturbund lived. 

During the first 8 days of July, Ralph and I explored the city of Berlin, tracing the story of the Kulturbund by visiting the sites of the places I had mapped. We visited Sachsenhausen, a concentration camp north of Berlin, as well as an archive which held physical material related to the performances and negotiations made with National Socialists. From the encouragement of Ralph, I have been experimenting with musical composition as a form of storytelling, relating to the emotional events I had researched. 

What have you found the most intriguing?

Berlin is a gargantuan city, yet when you choose a specific topic to analyze the city with, you notice how interconnected everything is. It sounds so broad, but it’s true. The architecture of major cities in Germany becomes a mosaic because history has rewritten buildings and streets so many times over. 

How has the experience opened up ideas for future research, studies or career goals?

Describing emotion and events through various media is something that I am already passionate about and can see myself doing for the rest of my life, whether it is through design, film, music, or writing. I am lucky enough to have visited Germany many times because of personal connections, and I keep finding myself back there, as there are always more opportunities sucking me in… 

How can we find out more about the research you’ve been working on?

The research that I have done this summer is a continuation of Ralph Stern’s ongoing research of the urbanization and history Berlin. If there are any specific questions about my research and experience, feel free to contact me directly at wisneskk@myumanitoba.ca. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I am beyond grateful for the encouragement and opportunity from my supervisor Ralph to use research as a foundation for my own personal interests and ambitions, and for the daily 25,000 steps we took in Berlin that showed me things I would have never believed existed.

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URA recipients from the Faculty of Architecture in 2024 also included Mitchell Constable, Elena Dobrowney, Shianne Epp, Brandan Gatz, Jazz Gill, A.V. Ronquillo, and Miguel Siguenza.

Over 35 Faculty of Arts students who were 2024 undergraduate student research award (URA) and psychology undergraduate research experience award (PURE) competition winners and their research advisors came together for a luncheon event where they shared what the students worked on, what the supervisors had to say about the students’ amazing work and what each student learned from their experience.

“Undergraduate students play an important role in helping advance the research that takes place in our Faculty,” said Dr. Heidi Marx, Dean, Faculty of Arts. “Whether applied or fundamental, Arts research explores questions and issues that are critical to our society, and makes meaningful contributions to knowledge and our understanding of the world we live in. At the same time, the students learn valuable skills that they will be able to draw upon in both their studies and their future careers.”

“Students learn valuable skills that they will be able to draw upon in both their studies and their future careers.” – Dr. Heidi Marx, Dean

Through research work, Faculty of Arts students build skills in research methodologies and techniques, how to write about and present data, data collection and analysis, public speaking, critical thinking and technical skills such as using software or various lab techniques. The award winners shared how they worked on exciting and diverse tasks such as scouring databases, legislation, library catalogs and archives, conducting literature reviews, designing surveys, recruiting research participants and conducting interviews, analyzing data and helping to communicate research findings to the greater community by contributing to a variety of items such as articles, reports, presentations, blogs and video essays.

Marley Pauls [BA(Hons)/24], a former URA recipient, spoke to the students about why they became a student researcher and the thrill of winning first place in the oral format category at the 2023 UM Undergraduate Research Showcase (Humanities and Social Sciences category). Now a graduate student in linguistics and discourse studies at Carleton University, they shared with students how participating in research enhanced their overall undergraduate experience and led to opportunities they wouldn’t have imagined were available and possible.

At the luncheon, the students were encouraged to take what they’ve learned to the next level by applying for the UM undergraduate research showcase and for future research awards. Dr. Marx added that participating in these events “can open doors to even more skill-building opportunities for students to further their experience and learning”.

The event was a huge success. There were many smiling faces as each student received a keepsake that included a personal message from their academic supervisor. The students were reminded to feel proud of their contributions and accomplishments. In return, the students thanked their supervisors for providing the opportunity to learn and explore many unique and exciting areas of study.

2024 URA award recipient Grace Elendu, a criminology major, encourages fellow Arts undergraduate students to apply for a future URA. “University is all about taking opportunities and gaining new experiences,” Elendu shared. “Say yes to as many things as you can. You never know where that ‘yes’ could take you in the future.”

Research opportunities for students

The next UM undergraduate research showcase takes place on October 24, 2024. Learn more and apply.

Undergraduate students can apply for a 2025 URA or PURE. Visit the web for more information and to see deadlines for each award.

Watch what students had to say about their Arts undergraduate research experience:

Mackenzie Groot

Mackenzy Groot

As a preservice teacher, I wanted to work as a URA this summer to expand my skill set and knowledge base within a professional setting. Due to the fact that this is a shorter program, I was looking to gain additional qualifications and awareness to best prepare myself as a future educator. Upon meeting Dr. Watt and talking about her research with her I knew immediately that I wanted to be apart of her research. Not only is Dr. Watt’s research so incredibly important, but her passion and devotion to this research inspired me to feel the same way.

This past summer, I was able to work with a collaborative research team that explored how engaging in analysis of popular media using an “I Spy with my Feminist Eye” framework too might provide pedagogical possibilities for other educators to address gender based sexual violence. I focused particularly on how to expand this conversation to include a much-needed examination of what pedagogical conversations, resources, and approaches are needed within the context of sport for athletes, coaches, and parents

From this experience, I was not only able to acquire new understandings about gender based sexual violence in schools, but I believe it has helped me become a more aware, thoughtful, and knowledgeable preservice teacher. Additionally, as a retired student-athlete, who plans to coach a variety of different sports when I begin my teaching career, I feel that this opportunity has better prepared me to enter into a coaching position. This opportunity has aided me in obtaining new understandings about sport, coaching, and supporting student athletes in a safe, healthy, and meaningful way.

Alex Derlago

Alex Derlago

I spent this summer as an URA student with Dr. Shannon Moore. I feel as though working on campus encourages intellectual curiosity and allows me to maintain focus on my studies. Having a URA position gives the opportunity for meaningful employment, and fulfills the desire for knowledge. Dr. Moore makes learning both engaging and meaningful. As a student in the field of education, I look up to her expertise and the approach she adopts to her research endeavours.

The research analyzes popular media with a tool that was created by Dr. Moore and Dr. Watt, which helps to highlight the many occurrences of gender-based violence within certain pieces of media. Making this violence apparent allows for fruitful conversations to occur between teachers and students, and could potentially help to prevent prejudicial thinking. For myself, I chose to focus on Dave Chappelle’s The Closer which has been under much scrutiny for some time now. From this experience I have continued to learn about my place and privilege as a straight, white, cisgender, and able-bodied man within Canada and the world at large. As such, it is important that I am aware of the social injustices imposed on women, Transgender people, and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

I am thankful to have been exposed to new perspectives and now being more aware of these social injustices. There is still much to learn as this is a prominent social issue that effects everyone, whether they know it or not. I am looking forward to seeing what comes about from this research as it is quite pertinent for the current social climate. Being more knowledgeable about these issues has made me feel more strongly on the idea that everyone deserves respect and to be treated in the most humane way possible. This sort of sentiment can easily be stated without any forethought or awareness, but I recognize this sentiment to not only be true but special. Now I just need to put these words into action.

Selena Alevizos

Selena Alevizos

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work as a research assistant for Dr. Watt during the 2022-2023 academic year. I was already part of the Gender Based Sexual Violence Research Collective she was leading, and she approached me about the opportunity to do my own research over the summer. I have always been interested in conducting my own research, and this was the perfect opportunity for me to better develop my skills and expand my knowledge. When I first met Dr. Watt I could instantly see how passionate she was about the research she was doing. As a first-year student, I was struggling to find people who were willing to have conversations about the education surrounding Gender Based Sexual Violence (GBSV) in schools. As a proud feminist, I was surprised that conversations surrounding these violences were not occurring in any of my classes. In my efforts to find resources that I could use as a preservice teacher, I learned about the research Dr. Watt and her team were already conducting surrounding GBSV and was lucky enough to be invited to join their research collective.

The collaborative research team that I was a part of over the summer explored how we can pedagogically use popular media to address Gender Based Sexual Violence. We used the “I Spy with My Feminist Eye” tool, a work-in-progress feminist media analysis framework based largely on Sara Ahmed’s (2017) intersectional, everyday feminist theorizing to force a feminist lens on the media we looked into. I chose to look into toxic masculinity and male media influencers, with a specific focus on Andrew Tate and how he uses his platforms to spread anti-feminist misogynistic rhetoric. By avoiding educational opportunities for dialogue about feminism and/or gender based sexual violence we allow negative ideas about feminism to persist, creating spaces for people like Andrew Tate to spread their anti-feminist misogynistic rhetoric. As educators we need to force intersectional feminism to the forefront of our teaching and learning so that the patterns and regularities of violence become more visible so that we can work toward eliminating them. Feminism is not an unnecessary or resolved topic. Educators need to take pedagogical action to critically counter the discourses of violence and hate that students encounter in media as ways to both notice and disrupt the violence and inequities encountered by female or femme individuals both within the K-12 system and beyond.

I am looking forward to being able to continue this research with Dr. Watt over this new academic year. There is always more work that needs to be done in order to counteract the violence that female and femme individuals encounter on a daily basis. I look forward to helping create more pedagogical tools and opportunities for other preservice teachers to learn more about GBSV and be comfortable enough to teach their students about the harms of GBSV. The main reason I pursued this opportunity was because these important conversations were not occurring in my classes. I am excited that the research and conversations that occurred over the summer have led to the creation of various informative sessions for preservice teachers that will be occurring in the faculty over the next year.

Alina Bilonozhko earned first prize for “Unstacking the Deck: A Game of Change” and Cole Marotta earned second prize for “Canadian Architecture Forums on Education: Connecting Canada.” Both Alina and Cole are Environmental Design students in the Architecture stream. Their posters showcased research they commenced last summer while working with Dr. Lisa Landrum through the Undergraduate Research Awards program.

Alina’s poster displays creative snapshots of archival documents related to the lives and accomplishments of early women architecture graduates from the University of Manitoba, which she researched as part of Dr. Landrum’s “Unstacking the Deck” project.

Cole’s poster features the outcomes of nation-wide exhibition on equity in architecture as part of the 2022 Canadian Architectural Forums on Education, organized with Dr. Landrum and the Canadian Architectural Student’s Association.

Held annually by the University of Manitoba’s Office of the Vice-President Research and International, the poster competition celebrates research across disciplines and encourages knowledge mobilization at the undergraduate level. Posters are judged for scholarly and creative content, effective communication, and overall impression and significance.

For a list of all the winners in all categories, visit https://news.umanitoba.ca/2023-undergraduate-research-poster-competition-winners-selected/

The URA provides an exciting opportunity for students with a thirst for knowledge and aspirations of research experience to spend 16 weeks full-time from May to August immersed in their field of interest. It’s also coupled with a $7,000 monetary award. 

In the summer of 2022, Wiens worked under the supervision of Dr. Leslie Roos, assistant professor in psychology and co-principal investigator in the Hearts & Minds Lab. Along with a team of undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and academics, their research aims to evaluate and develop scalable programs that promote parent mental health and wellness and family relationships.

We spoke with Wiens about her URA experience:

FACULTY OF ARTS: WHAT RESEARCH DID YOU CONDUCT? DID YOU UNCOVER ANY IMPORTANT FINDINGS?

WIENS: Our research project name was “I’m not alone”: A Qualitative Analysis of the Building Emotional Awareness and Mental Health (BEAM) mHealth Program Forum.

We qualitatively analyzed the content of an online parenting forum that was a component of the Building Emotional Awareness and Mental Health (BEAM) program. BEAM is a 10-week program that was designed to promote mental wellness and parenting skills for mothers experiencing depression and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. This research is the first to examine how mothers of young children who are part of an mHealth intervention, where mobile and wireless technologies are used to support the achievement of health objectives, engage with each other using an online forum. Most importantly, we found that programs like BEAM that utilize program forums to facilitate communication and peer support can be a way to enhance participant engagement and receive real-time feedback on program content.

WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM THE URA EXPERIENCE?

As a student, working on this award provided me with an opportunity to build relationships with faculty and graduate students in the field of psychology. Of course, I learned so much about what conducting scientific research really looks like, but I also gained valuable insights into what to expect from graduate programs and how to put together a competitive application.

Because I am interested in working in Northern communities where mental health services are often very difficult to access, I would like to investigate whether an mHealth program such as BEAM would be a viable option for increasing accessibility in these communities.

I also really enjoyed meeting other undergraduate and graduate students who have similar interests. It was great to collaborate on the project and learn some new perspectives.

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR OTHER ARTS STUDENTS WHO ARE CONSIDERING APPLYING FOR AN URA?

Working on the URA is a great way to develop and fine-tune your research interests. When I first applied, my interests were quite broad, but now I feel like I have more focus and direction in the research I would like to conduct in the future. I think one of the main reasons that my URA application was successful is because I interviewed faculty members whose research interests were relevant to my future career goals. My advice would be for students to go into it with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to learn.

HOW DO YOUR STUDIES IN THE FACULTY OF ARTS COMPLEMENT YOUR RESEARCH ACTIVITIES AND YOUR FUTURE CAREER GOALS?

I have taken courses in a variety of different subjects toward my Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree including psychology, sociology, linguistics and religion. The most interesting thing about studying all these subjects is that there are so many connections across disciplines that are often surprising to me, and these unexpected connections continuously deepen my understanding of the world around me.

Visit the Undergraduate Research Award webpage for full details on the program and to find a list of student research opportunities available in the Faculty of Arts for the coming year.